In 1910 when this ad appeared in the New York Clipper, electricity was still a mystery and novelty, and could still front an entire show. The elaborate artwork featured in G.W. Allen’s advertisement demonstrates that the show he was selling was successful, and could make the prospective showman who spent the “$150 to $300 for a Complete Outfit” a good living. All that was needed was an attractive and willing performer to bring off the act. While today the electric act could hardly carry an entire show, the basics of this 100+ year old act can still be seen everyday of the show season on both The World of Wonders and The Coney Island Sideshow.
Dates: 1900-1919